In a groundbreaking moment for Sierra Leone’s cooperative sphere, Mr. Peter Alexandra Banting, the dynamic General Manager of the National Cooperative Credit Union Association (NaCCUA), has etched his name in history as the first Sierra Leonean to participate in the prestigious Africa Development Educators (ADE) Program. This transformative journey, generously sponsored by the German Sparkassenstiftung (DSIK) for Western Africa, signifies a resolute commitment to elevate Sierra Leone’s cooperative credit union landscape.
The ADE Program, hosted in the vibrant city of Livingstone, Zambia, has become a melting pot for nearly 50 cooperative leaders hailing from 14 countries across Africa and beyond. It serves as an incubator for innovative thinking, delving deep into the Cooperative Business Model and Principles, offering participants valuable insights to harness the unique potential of credit unions for community development.
A week of immersive education, dynamic events and spirited discussions has ignited a collective passion among participants to harness credit unions as catalysts for positive change, driven by the values of empathy and purpose. The program not only raises awareness about development challenges hindering financial freedom but also empowers cooperators to effectively address these issues.
Mr. Peter Alexandra Banting’s participation in the ADE Program marks a historic stride for Sierra Leone, underscoring NaCCUA’s commitment to being at the forefront of cooperative development. The DSIK’s sponsorship reflects the German government’s dedication to fostering a robust cooperative sector in Sierra Leone, recognizing its potential for transformative impact.
ADE is not merely a training ground; it is a dynamic platform fostering networking, collaboration and the exchange of ideas among cooperative leaders. As Livingstone applauds the conclusion of the 20th ADE Class, heartfelt congratulations are extended to Mr. Banting, acknowledging his pivotal role in propelling Sierra Leone onto the global cooperative stage.
Armed with a treasure trove of knowledge and insights gained through the ADE Program, Mr. Banting returns to Sierra Leone, poised to contribute to the growth and sustainability of the cooperative movement. His visionary plan includes engaging credit unions in Sierra Leone with the best practices learned, ensuring they thrive in serving their members effectively.
The 20th ADE Class of Livingstone stands testament to the power of cooperative education in steering positive change. As we revel in this milestone, let us collectively applaud Mr. Banting for his pioneering spirit and unwavering dedication to advancing the cooperative movement in Sierra Leone.
Join us in celebrating the 20th Africa Development Educators (ADE) Class of Livingstone, Zambia – unequivocally the best class yet! The journey towards cooperative excellence continues, with Sierra Leone proudly paving the way for a brighter, more cooperative future.
